Name: Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups fresh broccoli florets; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cups chicken broth or stock; 1 cup milk or cream; 1 to 1.5 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend); 2 tbsp olive oil or butter; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried herbs (optional)

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a comforting one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy, cheesy orzo pasta. It’s a simple, satisfying dish that comes together quickly, perfect for busy weeknights or anytime I want something warm and hearty without a lot of fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a perfect balance of protein, veggies, and carbs all in one dish. The creamy cheese sauce coats every bite of orzo, while the chicken and broccoli add great texture and flavor. It’s easy to make and feels like a homemade comfort food classic that my whole family enjoys. Plus, cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in one pan.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Orzo pasta
Fresh broccoli florets
Garlic, minced
Onion, finely chopped
Chicken broth or stock
Milk or cream
Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
Olive oil or butter
Salt and pepper
Italian seasoning or dried herbs (optional)

Directions

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned and mostly cooked through, then remove from the pan.
In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent.
Add the orzo to the skillet and toast it for a minute or two, stirring often.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 8 minutes, or until the orzo is almost tender.
Stir in the broccoli florets and return the chicken to the pan. Cover again and cook for another 5 minutes, until the broccoli is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
Lower the heat and pour in the milk or cream. Add the shredded cheese and stir until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 4 people. From start to finish, it takes roughly 30 minutes, making it a great option for a quick, satisfying dinner.

Variations

Swap out the chicken for turkey or sausage for a different protein twist.
Use cauliflower or asparagus instead of broccoli for a change in veggies.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Mix in some sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for extra flavor.
For a dairy-free version, replace cheese and milk with vegan alternatives.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I add a splash of milk or broth and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep the orzo creamy and prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just add it in the last few minutes of cooking so it doesn’t get mushy.

What cheese works best in this recipe?

I like using a combination of cheddar and mozzarella because cheddar gives sharpness while mozzarella adds creaminess. You can use any cheese that melts well.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and chop veggies in advance, but I recommend cooking everything fresh to keep the texture and flavor at their best.

Is it okay to use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Thighs stay juicy and tender, and they add a slightly richer flavor compared to chicken breasts.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by using gluten-free orzo or substituting with a similar gluten-free pasta, you can make this dish gluten-free without compromising taste.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo has become one of my go-to comfort meals because it’s easy, flavorful, and nourishing. I love how the creamy cheese sauce brings everything together, and the broccoli adds just the right amount of freshness. It’s a recipe I always enjoy making when I want something delicious with minimal effort but maximum satisfaction.